A good knowledge of the longest-living dog species gives one, especially pet lovers, a perfect insight into the breed of these furry friends of man to choose as an animal buddy.
In the realm of companionship and loyalty, dogs hold a special place in the hearts of millions worldwide. While their love knows no bounds, their lifespan often feels fleeting to those who cherish them.
However, amidst the myriad breeds, a fascinating subset of canines defy the odds, living notably longer than their counterparts.
Delving into the world of the longest-living dog species reveals the secrets to their remarkable longevity and imparts valuable lessons for all pet lovers and enthusiasts alike.
For all pet lovers and avid readers, exploring the world of the dog species transcends mere fascination; it underscores a shared commitment to the well-being and happiness of our beloved animal companions.
So, without further discussion, let’s delve into this fantastic topic. Do well to follow it to the end. You will also learn which giant dog breed defies all odds of size to live the longest.
Table of Contents
Factors that Affect Dog Life Span
There are different reasons why some dogs or dog species tend to live longer than others. Some may be natural, while others may be highly influenced by the environment and the breeder.
Hence, let’s take a look at these factors;
1. Breed
Different breeds have different average lifespans. Smaller breeds tend to live longer than larger breeds due to their slower metabolic rate and reduced strain on their organs and joints, leading to fewer health issues associated with ageing, with exceptions to some larger breeds like the Great Dane, Mastiff, and Irish Wolfhound, which, irrespective of their size, have an average life span compared to smaller breeds.
2. Genetics
Genetic factors play a significant role in determining a dog’s lifespan. Some breeds have genetic predispositions to certain health conditions that can affect longevity.
Also, some genetic conditions in dogs might make them highly receptive to some adverse environmental conditions prevalent in their immediate surroundings, and this, of course, affects the number of years they will live.
3. Diet and Nutrition
Providing a balanced diet with proper nutrition is essential for maintaining a dog’s overall health and extending their lifespan.
This particular factor is greatly and solely dependent on the care and lifestyle chosen for the dog by the owner. If you want your dog to stay with you for a greater number of years, feed him/her the right food and nutrients.
4. Exercise and Activity Level
Here again is a lifestyle factor. Just as exercise keeps us humans away from doctors, dogs need some level of exercise and routine activities to keep them healthy and strong.
In addition to the health benefits, exercise increases the thinking and analytical capabilities of a dog, which comes in handy in most needed scenarios and, most especially, in emergencies.
5. Genetic Disorders and Diseases
Depending on their severity and management, some genetic disorders and diseases may impact a dog’s lifespan. Most times, a breed of dog might have an unavoidable genetic problem or disease that surely shortens its lifespan and eventually contributes to death.
Other obvious factors that determine how long a dog can live may include:
- Environment and Healthcare
- Stress and anxiety
- Spaying and neutering: Sterilization can prevent certain health issues and behaviors that may shorten a dog’s lifespan.
- Quality of life
Top 30 Longest-living Dog Species
Ok, let’s look at the top 33 longest-living dog species in ascending order based on average lifespan.
- Chihuahua
- Toy Poodle
- Dachshund
- Australian Terrier
- Shih Tzu
- Lhasa Apso
- Pomeranian
- Jack Russell Terrier
- Miniature Schnauzer
- Beagle
- Pembroke Welsh Corgi
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Maltese
- Boston Terrier
- Miniature Pinscher
- Cairn Terrier
- Shetland Sheepdog
- Cockapoo
- Pug
- Border Terrier
- Basenji
- Havanese
- West Highland White Terrier
- Bichon Frise
- Scottish Terrier
- Rat Terrier
- Cocker Spaniel
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Tibetan Spaniel
- Australian Cattle Dog (Blue Heeler)
1. Chihuahua
This dog breed, originating from Mexico, is the smallest in the world but possesses a big personality. They have a compact body with either a smooth or long coat, available in various colors and patterns.
Chihuahuas are known for their bold, confident, and affectionate natures, often forming strong bonds with their owners. Despite their small size, they have a fearless attitude and may be wary of strangers.
With their relatively robust health and longevity, Chihuahuas often enjoy a long lifespan, frequently reaching 14 to 18 years or more with proper care and attention, making them one of the longest-living dog species.
2. Toy Poodle
The Toy Poodle, originating from Germany, is a small but elegant breed known for its intelligence and charm. With a curly, hypoallergenic coat that comes in various colors, they possess a regal appearance.
Toy Poodles are renowned for their playful, affectionate, and highly trainable nature, making them excellent companions for families and individuals alike. They excel in various canine activities, including obedience, agility, and therapy work.
Toy poodles often enjoy a long lifespan, frequently reaching 14 to 18 years of age or more with proper care and attention, qualifying them a slot in the place of the longest-living dog species.
3. Dachshund
The Dachshund, originating from Germany, is a unique and spirited breed known for its elongated body and short legs. With a distinctive appearance and coat varieties including smooth, wirehaired, and longhaired, they possess a charming and playful demeanor.
Dachshunds are renowned for their bold, independent, and affectionate nature, often forming strong bonds with their owners. Despite their small size, they have a courageous attitude and may exhibit a strong prey drive.
Being a breed with a huge deal of longevity, Dachshunds has a long lifespan, often reaching and even exceeding 12 to 16 years with proper care and attention.
4. Australian Terrier
From its name, one can already tell that this small but sturdy breed, known for its feisty personality and loyalty, originates from Australia.
With a wiry coat in shades of blue and tan, they possess a charming and alert appearance. Australian Terriers are renowned for their intelligence, courage, and affectionate nature, making them excellent companions for families and individuals alike. They have a strong prey drive and may be vocal, making them effective watchdogs.
When it comes to their lifespan, this dog breed often enjoys a long and robust lifespan, frequently reaching 12 to 15 years or more with proper care and attention.
5. Shih Tzu
This small and affectionate dog breed, known for its luxurious coat and regal demeanour, originated in China. They possess a dignified and elegant appearance with a flowing double coat in various colours.
Shih Tzus are renowned for their gentle, affectionate, and outgoing nature, making them wonderful companions for families and individuals. Despite their small size, they thrive on human companionship and may be playful and spirited.
The Shih Tzus enjoy a long lifespan, frequently reaching 12 to 16 years or more with proper care and attention, making them one of the longest-living dog species.
6. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso, originating from Tibet, is a small yet sturdy breed known for its distinctively long and flowing coat. With a dignified and alert expression, they possess a regal and charming appearance.
Lhasa Apsos are renowned for their independent, loyal, and sometimes aloof nature, making them excellent companions for dedicated owners. They have a keen sense of hearing and may be wary of strangers, making them effective watchdogs.
This dog breed often enjoys a long lifespan, frequently reaching 12 to 15 years or more with proper care and attention, making them one of the longest-living dog species.
7. Pomeranian
The Pomeranian, originating from the Pomerania region of Germany and Poland, is a small but vibrant breed known for its fluffy coat and confident demeanour.
They possess a charming and lively appearance with a luxurious double coat in various colours. Pomeranians are renowned for their intelligence, boldness, and affectionate nature, making them excellent companions for families and individuals. They may be spirited and vocal, making them effective watchdogs.
With their relatively robust health and longevity, Pomeranians boast relatively robust health. With proper care and attention, their lifespans frequently reach 12 to 16 years or more, making them one of the longest-living dog species.
8. Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier is one of the longest-living dog species among dog-natives of England. It is a small, energetic, and highly intelligent breed known for its hunting prowess and spirited personality.
Jack Russells were originally bred for fox hunting, and their compact size and agility make them excellent working dogs. They have a short, smooth coat or a rough, broken coat and come in various colours.
They are bold, confident, and independent, with a strong prey drive and a tendency to dig. Despite their small size, they are robust and sturdy dogs.
Jack Russell Terriers have a relatively long lifespan, often living up to 13 to 16 years with proper care. Hence, they can be classified as a long-living dog breed.
9. Miniature Schnauzer
This is a small and sturdy breed known for its distinctive beard and eyebrows. Native to Germany and bred from Standard Schnauzers, they were originally used as ratters on farms.
Miniature Schnauzers have wiry coats in various colours, including salt and pepper, black, and silver. They are intelligent, affectionate, and alert dogs with a spirited and playful temperament. Despite their small size, they make excellent watchdogs and companions.
Miniature Schnauzers are among the longest-living dog species, with an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years, given proper care and nutrition.
10. Beagle
The Beagle, an English dog breed, is a small to medium-sized scent hound known for its keen sense of smell and friendly disposition. With a distinctive howl and a tail that’s always wagging, beagles are beloved for their playful and sociable nature, making them one of the most loved dog breeds.
Beagles have a sturdy build, short legs, and a smooth, dense coat in various colors. They are curious, outgoing, and affectionate dogs, making them excellent companions for families and individuals alike.
With proper care, this cute dog breed can live a long and healthy life, with an average lifespan ranging from 12 to 15 years.
11. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi, originating from Wales, is a small herding dog known for its distinctive appearance with short legs, a long body, and upright ears. Bred for herding cattle, Corgis are intelligent, active, and affectionate companions.
They have a double coat that requires regular grooming and come in various colours, most commonly red, sable, and tri-colour. Pembroke Welsh Corgis are outgoing, friendly, and eager to please, making them excellent family pets.
Despite their relatively small size, they have a sturdy build and a long lifespan, often living from 12 to 15 years with proper care and attention.
12. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier, originating from England, is a small and glamorous breed known for its long, silky coat and confident demeanour. Originally bred as rat hunters in Yorkshire mines, Yorkies are now cherished as companions and show dogs.
Despite their small size, they possess a big personality, being bold, affectionate, and fiercely loyal to their owners. Their luxurious coat requires regular grooming to maintain its beauty.
Yorkshire Terriers are among the longest-living dog breeds, with an average lifespan ranging from 12 to 15 years. This makes them wonderful lifelong companions for those willing to provide proper care and attention.
13. Maltese
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The Maltese, originating from the Mediterranean island of Malta, is a small and elegant breed known for its luxurious, silky white coat. Bred as companions for royalty and nobility, Maltese dogs are affectionate, playful, and gentle, making them excellent family pets and therapy dogs.
They have a distinctive black nose and eyes and long, flowing hair that requires regular grooming to prevent matting. Despite their small size, they possess a bold and confident personality.
Maltese dogs are among the longest-living dog breeds, with an average lifespan ranging from 12 to 15 years. This makes them cherished companions for many years.
14. Boston Terrier
This dog breed is native to the United States of America. It is a small, compact breed known for its tuxedo-like markings and expressive eyes.
Bred from Bulldogs and Terriers, Bostons are affectionate, intelligent, and lively companions. They are often called “The American Gentleman” due to their dapper appearance and friendly demeanor. Their smooth coat is distinctively black and white or brindle and white.
Boston Terriers are adaptable and sociable dogs that get along well with children and other pets. With proper care and attention, they can live relatively long lives, with an average lifespan ranging from 11 to 15 years, making them one of the longest-living dog species in their size category.
15. Miniature Pinscher
The Miniature Pinscher, affectionately known as the “Min Pin,” is a small but mighty breed from Germany. Despite its resemblance to the Doberman Pinscher, it is a distinct breed in its own right.
This spunky and energetic dog boasts a sleek, compact frame with a short coat in various colours, including black and rust.
Known for its alert and spirited nature, the Min Pin is a confident and independent companion with a curious and playful personality. Despite its small size, it has a big personality and loves asserting itself as the “king of the castle.”
With proper care, nutrition, and exercise, the Miniature Pinscher can live a long and healthy life, often exceeding 12 to 15 years of age, making it one of the longer-living dog breeds.
16. Cairn Terrier
The Cairn Terrier, originating from Scotland, is a small but sturdy breed known for its shaggy coat and alert expression. They were originally bred to hunt small rodents in the rocky Scottish terrain.
Cairns are spirited, affectionate, and intelligent dogs, often displaying a fearless attitude. Their compact size and lively personality make them great companions for active families.
Cairn Terriers are among the longest-living dog breeds, with an average lifespan of around 13 to 15 years.
17. Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog, which originates from the Shetland Islands of Scotland, is a small—to medium-sized herding dog known for its intelligence, agility, and loyalty.
With a striking resemblance to the Rough Collie, shetland sheepdogs are often referred to as “Shelties.” They have a long, luxurious double coat that requires regular grooming.
Shelties are affectionate, gentle, and eager to please, making them excellent family pets and companions. They are also highly trainable and excel in obedience and agility competitions.
With proper care, they can live a long and healthy life. Their average lifespan ranges from 12 to 14 years, making them one of the longest-living dog breeds.
18. Cockapoo
This fine dog breed is a delightful crossbreed that originated in the United States. It is a mix of a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. They come in various sizes and coat types, typically with a soft, curly, or wavy coat that may vary in colour.
Cockapoos are known for their friendly, affectionate, and intelligent nature, making them wonderful companions for families and individuals. They often inherit the best traits of both parent breeds, including trainability and a loving disposition.
With their hybrid vigour and generally good health, Cockapoos enjoy a long lifespan, frequently reaching 12 to 15 years or more with proper care and attention. This contributes to their status as one of the longest-living dog species.
19. Pug
The Pug, originating from China, is a charming and affectionate breed known for its distinctive wrinkled face and curled tail. With a compact yet sturdy build, Pugs have a smooth coat in various colours, such as fawn or black.
Their delightful personalities shine through their playful and friendly demeanour, making them excellent companions for families and individuals.
Pugs thrive on attention and are often described as “clowns” due to their humorous antics. Despite their small size, Pugs have relatively robust health and can live a long life, typically ranging from 12 to 15 years, owing to their adaptable nature and relatively low exercise requirements.
20. Border Terrier
The Border Terrier, which hails from the border regions of England and Scotland, is a hardy and versatile breed. Its wiry coat, which comes in shades of red, wheaten, or grizzle, gives it a rugged charm.
Border Terriers are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, making them excellent family pets. Their intelligence and high energy levels make them adept at various activities, including agility and obedience training.
Renowned for their robust health and minimal grooming needs, Border Terriers enjoy a long lifespan, frequently reaching 12 to 15 years with proper care and attention.
21. Basenji
The Basenji originates from Central Africa and is a unique and ancient breed known for its elegant appearance, tightly curled tail, and distinctive yodel-like vocalization instead of barking.
Bred for hunting in Africa, Basenjis are independent, intelligent, and curious dogs with a strong prey drive. They have a short, smooth coats in various colours, often with white feet, chest, and tail tips.
Basenjis are clean dogs that groom themselves like cats and are known for their aloof yet affectionate nature towards their families. They can live a relatively long life with proper care, with an average lifespan ranging from 12 to 14 years.
22. Havanese
This small, cute, and lively dog breed, simply called the Havanese, originated in Cuba. It is known for its silky, wavy coat and affectionate nature.
Bred as companions for Cuban aristocracy, Havanese dogs are cheerful, outgoing, and eager to please, making them excellent family pets and therapy dogs. They have a sturdy build, a plumed tail that carries over their back, and a playful, intelligent expression.
Havanese are adaptable and friendly dogs that get along well with children and other pets. With proper care and attention, they can live relatively long lives, with an average lifespan ranging from 14 to 16 years, making them one of the healthiest longest-living dog species.
23. West Highland White Terrier
The West Highland White Terrier, originating from Scotland, is a small and sturdy breed known for its distinctive white coat and confident demeanour.
With a compact build and lively expression, Westies are spirited, independent dogs with bold, dignified personalities.
They always appear healthy and live long, with an average lifespan of 12 to 16 years.
24. Bichon Frisé
The Bichon Frisé, originating from the Mediterranean, is a small and cheerful breed known for its fluffy white coat and affectionate nature.
With a sturdy build and expressive eyes, Bichons are outgoing and sociable companions, making them excellent family pets.
They typically live relatively long and healthy lives, with an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years.
25. Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier, originating from Scotland, is a small and robust breed known for its distinctive silhouette and bold personality. With a wiry coat and erect ears, Scotties are independent and spirited companions, often described as “big dogs in a small package”.
As they grow in age, they can live up to 11 to 13 years, making this type of dog breed a resilient and cherished companion.
26. Rat Terrier
The Rat Terrier, originating from the United States, is a small to medium-sized breed known for its agility, intelligence, and versatility. With a sleek, muscular build and short coat, Rat Terriers are energetic and alert, excelling in various activities such as hunting and obedience.
With an average lifespan of 12 to 18 years, they are worthy of being regarded as one of the longest-living dog breeds.
27. Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel, originating from England, is a medium-sized breed known for its beautiful, flowing coat and gentle, affectionate nature. With a sturdy build and long, feathered ears, Cockers are intelligent and cheerful companions, excelling as family pets and therapy dogs.
They typically live relatively long lives, with an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years, making them cherished lifelong companions.
28. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, originating from the United Kingdom, is a small and elegant breed known for its regal appearance and affectionate nature, a distance feature distinguishing it from all dog breeds of UK origin.
Bred as companion dogs for royalty, Cavaliers are gentle, friendly, and sociable companions, making them excellent family pets and therapy dogs. They have a graceful build with a silky, feathered coat in various colours, often with distinctive “blenheim” or “tricolour” markings.
Cavaliers are known for their expressive, melting eyes and loving dispositions. They can live long with proper care and attention, having an average lifespan ranging from 10 to 14 years.
29. Tibetan Spaniel
The Tibetan Spaniel, originating from Tibet, is a small and ancient breed known for its distinctive appearance and loyal nature.
Tibetan Spaniels were bred as companions and watchdogs in Tibetan monasteries. They are independent, intelligent, and affectionate dogs, making them excellent family pets and companions.
They have a small, sturdy build with a silky double coat in various colours, often with a lion-like mane around the neck. Tibetan Spaniels are known for their expressive, large eyes and unique “paw-waving” greeting.
With proper care and attention, they can live a relatively long life, with an average lifespan ranging from 12 to 15 years, making them one of the longer-living dog breeds.
30. Australian Cattle Dog (Blue Heeler)
The Australian Cattle Dog, also known as the Blue Heeler or Queensland Heeler originated in Australia to herd cattle. They are medium-sized, sturdy dogs with a muscular build and a distinctive blue or red speckled coat.
Australian cattle dogs are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and work ethic. They excel in various activities, including herding, obedience, and agility. Australian cattle dogs are highly energetic and require regular exercise and mental stimulation.
They are loyal and protective of their families but can be reserved with strangers. With proper training and socialization, they make excellent companions for active individuals or families and, hence, top the list of the longest-living dog breeds.
Australian Cattle Dog Lifespan
The Australian Cattle Dog typically lives 12 to 16 years, making it one of the longest-living dog species. Although individual dogs may vary, proper care, nutrition, exercise, and regular veterinary check-ups can contribute to longevity.
However, like all dog breeds, Australian Cattle Dogs may be susceptible to certain health issues affecting their lifespan, such as hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and deafness. Early detection and management of health concerns can help maximize their lifespan and overall quality of life.
Which Giant Dog Breed Lives the Longest?
Throughout this article, we have mentioned many dog breeds and their corresponding lifespans. When we examine these dog breeds, we will observe that their sizes are all small, at least relatively small compared to some other dogs used for various purposes other than domestication.
Small dog breeds live longer than larger dog breeds due to their nature, genetics, and various other factors, which, of course, we will discuss in another article, maybe some other time. So, when looking into the longest-living dog species, these small dog breeds would first be studied before the larger ones.
Answering this question, the Great Dane is often considered the longest-living giant dog breed, with an average lifespan of 8 to 10 years.
Several factors contribute to their relatively longer lifespan than other giant breeds, including genetics with responsible breeding practices, size that puts less strain on their bodies, proactive health screenings, proper nutrition and care, and their gentle temperament, which may reduce stress and promote overall well-being.
Conclusion
On a general note, understanding the lifespan of various dog breeds and the factors that influence it is a big plus for pet lovers and prospective dog owners, as it helps them make informed decisions when selecting a furry companion to shower all their petly love on.
While genetics, size, and health play significant roles, the longevity of these top 30 longest-living dog species underscores the joy and companionship they can provide for many years.
So before making a choice, be certain to have checked all the boxes you care about.
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